High School Study Abroad in Agra, India

Explore the diverse culture by traveling through four different states in India! This project allows for eco-friendly tourism as well as a variety of volunteer placement options. Spend the first 3 weeks of your trip experiencing the best India has to offer, from Delhi to Jaisalmer and everywhere in between. After this sensory and cultural expedition, you will head to the Southern district of Goa for your week of volunteering. You will begin your journey in Delhi and continue on to Shimla for a mountain trek for 2 days. From there you will go to Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai Lama, and return to Delhi before continuing on to Agra, home of one of the Seven Wonders of the world- the majesticTaj Mahal. From there you will visit Rajasthan and Udaipur visiting places like the Moonset Palace, as well as partaking in a cooking class. Upon your arrival in Jaisalmer you will be able to enjoy a jeep safari and camel ride, followed by a spectacular boat ride in Mumbai to explore the Elephanta Caves. Lastly, after three weeks of fun-filled traveling, you will continue on to your chosen volunteer option. *Please note that the schedule is subject to change.

Live in dormitories and hotels in Dharamsala for the majority of your stay and participate in daily Tibetan Immersion and Mutual Learning Partnership programs. Students spend some time learning the Tibetan language, music, art, cooking, and philosophy, and get to share cultures too! Since relocating to India, Tibetan refugees have struggled to maintain their culture and identity. The mass movement has caused social and financial instability as transplanted families attempt to re-establish businesses, careers, and cultural harmony. Equally challenging has been the cultural disconnectedness as Tibetans attempt to live and strive in the Indian culture, quite different than their own. While the Tibetan refugee situation is a heated political issue, GoBeyond does not intend to incite political fervor, but rather to help the children and families who are suffering in our world. We seek to share cultures and stories and broaden horizons through educational exchange programs with Tibetan refugees. During your time in Dharamsala, you'll also embark on short excursions including a visit to the Dalai Lama's Temple. Students will meet prominent members of the Tibetan community.